While in New York for the Heisman Trophy ceremony, Ohio State pass rusher Chase Young was asked by TMZ Sports about the upcoming NFL draft.
He said he wasn’t thinking about it.
He was asked about returning to Ohio State next season.
He said, “That’s the plan.”
Sure, those words will bring hope to the ears of Buckeye fans everywhere. But only a fool’s hope.
In the same way, New York Giants or Washington Redskins fans need not worry about Young not being available when the No. 2 pick goes on the clock next April (go ahead and order those Burrow jerseys, Bengals fans).
I don’t think Young is being outright dishonest by saying his plan is to return to Columbus next season. I simply believe he’s smart enough to know that he and his teammates still have at least one more game to play this season, and the opportunity to play for a national championship.
He’s wise to remain focused on the task at hand, but he’s also not ignorant of the fact that he’s far-and-away the No. 1 prospect in this draft class, and will go no later than the No. 2 pick.
Young has put together one of the most dominant seasons we’ve ever seen from a defensive prospect, despite missing two games due to a suspension for violating NCAA rules. In just 11 games, Young has racked up 16.5 sacks, 21 tackles for loss and seven forced fumbles. He’s widely regarded as a better prospect than former Ohio State teammate Nick Bosa, who was last year’s No. 2 overall pick.
Young knows what he’s accomplished, knows what he’s capable of, and knows what he has on the table.
So, after the Heisman ceremony is over, and after the Buckeyes have finished their pursuit of a national title in this year’s College Football Playoff, don’t be surprised if the “plan” changes for Young.
And don’t be mad at him for making the smart decision by going pro.
